A few question on train photo in Western Cape

[Markus Obrink]

Hi! I'm new to the forum, so if I have posted this in the wrong place, please let me know. I'm not South African (from Sweden, but live in the Czech Republic), but I'm going to visit in January. I have a few questions:

- Are there any rules and regulations about train photography to keep in mind, or can I just photograph anything I'd like?

- Is there any "real" traffic going on at all on the railways around Mossel Bay/Hartenbos and George in Western Cape? And in case there is, is there any way of getting info about time tables and such?

- I would also be interested in if there are any good places outside Cape Town on the main line northwards for train spotting. Last time I visited I only took a few shots of the Metro rail, esp. the branch towards Simons Town, and I would like to get some variation.

I'm asking since I will go to Cape Town and the area around Mossel Bay and Knysna in January, and I would be happy to manage some rail photography while there. So if you have any good advice, I'd be more than happy to listen! Looking forward to visiting your beautiful country!

/Markus

[John Ashworth]

Thanks, Markus, and welcome to the forum. I've moved this topic to the “South Africa - General Railway News and Discussion (except for Heritage News)" forum, and hopefully someone will replay and assist you.

I've never found any restrictions to photographing railways in South Africa, as long as you are sensible about safety issues. Railways officials are usually friendly.